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Snyder Could Move On Bridge This Month

Governor Rick Snyder’s administration continues to seriously explore other methods of proceeding with authorizing the construction of a new bridge connecting Detroit and Windsor, Ontario, and could announce its decision this month.

One supporter of building the bridge, known as the New International Trade Crossing in Michigan and the Detroit River International Crossing in Canada, said the Snyder administration inquired in late December whether the group would still back the project if the governor decided to move forward without legislative approval.

Timing-wise, this source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the administration, if it decides to proceed in this direction, would announce a plan separately from Mr. Snyder’s State of the State address, but would do so either a week before or a week afterward.

Another source, also speaking on background, said if Mr. Snyder does make an announcement supporters were hoping it would before the State of the State address on January 18.

Snyder press secretary Sara Wurfel said nothing has changed for the administration on the bridge.

“He is continuing to make the business case for the NITC, continuing to work with and discuss the need with lawmakers and also continuing to explore all other options,” she said. “There’s no set timetable for a decision other than working hard to make the bridge a reality as it’s a huge opportunity to create jobs, boost international trade and position Michigan for the future – all without obligating the state or its taxpayers.”

Exactly what option the administration might pursue is unclear at this point. The options said by one source to have been under the closest review are, in no particular order, an intergovernmental agreement between Canada and public entities in Michigan, using the Detroit/Wayne County Port Authority or turning the project over to the federal government.